What's Happening?
Janiah Barker and Talaysia Cooper, players for the Tennessee Lady Vols basketball team, have been named to the 2025-26 John R. Wooden Award Women's Top 25 Midseason Watch List. This prestigious list, announced by the Los Angeles Athletic Club, highlights frontrunners for the Wooden Award All-American Team and the Wooden Award Most Outstanding Player. Barker and Cooper have been instrumental in leading the Lady Vols to a 10-3 start this season. Cooper averages 14.9 points, 6.2 rebounds, 4.2 assists, and 3.4 steals per game, while Barker averages 14.4 points and 6.8 rebounds.
Why It's Important?
Being named to the Wooden Award Watch List is a significant recognition for Barker and Cooper, reflecting their outstanding performance and contribution to their team. This
acknowledgment not only elevates their profiles but also enhances the reputation of the Tennessee Lady Vols program. The Wooden Award is one of the most prestigious honors in college basketball, and inclusion on the watch list can lead to increased visibility and opportunities for the athletes. It also highlights the strength and competitiveness of women's college basketball, encouraging more support and investment in the sport.
